Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)
At CalPERS we're committed to improving the lives and financial security of people — the people we serve, those who work here, and the larger community around us. As the nation's largest public pension fund and an organization with global impact, we meet the retirement and health needs of our members by building things better together. That includes supporting an inclusive culture that values diversity of thought, experience, and background. We take our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) seriously.
DEI Framework
In 2021, we developed a new DEI Framework. Through this Framework, we’re actively engaged with initiatives to increase the integration of DEI into all aspects of our organization. The Framework has five priority areas that closely align with our mission, vision, and values.
Culture
Goal: Bring DEI best practices into CalPERS’ culture
Objective: Increase awareness, build mutually rewarding relationships, and foster collaboration.
Talent Management
Goal: A high performing, equitable, and diverse workforce
Objective: Ensure Human Resources processes are in place to strengthen diversity in recruitment, retention, equity, and succession.
Health Equity
Goal: Equitable health outcomes for members and their families
Objective: Ensure all health members have the opportunity to attain the highest level of health possible.
Supplier Diversity
Goal: High Performing Supplier Diversity Program
Objective: Better understand supplier community through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Investments
Goal: Leverage the DEI Framework and Sustainable Investments Program to improve investment outcomes
Objective: Deliver returns through the identification, analysis, and management of high-value sustainable investment risks and opportunities.
CalPERS Diversity Outreach Program (CDOP)
In 2007, we became the first state agency in California and the first pension fund to create a dedicated program to coordinate and promote diversity efforts with external stakeholders. Since then, CDOP has been dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment and raising awareness about the value of diverse perspectives, experiences, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities represented at the organization.
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
We have two ERGs where team members from across the enterprise actively engage in spreading awareness on DEI and disability topics in the workplace:
CDIG aims to foster an inclusive environment where respect and openness bridge our different ideas, experiences, perspectives, and cultures to enrich our workplace. CDIG was recognized by the Association of ERG & Council Honors Award with a Spotlight Award for Best Practices.
CDAC is dedicated to the inclusion and equality of team members with disabilities and ensures our environment is accessible to all, regardless of disability type. CDAC promotes its mission of inclusion by developing and sponsoring employee awareness programs and events.
CDAC advises and assists the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) officer on the development, implementation, and evaluation of EEO programs and activities, which may be mandated, or otherwise provided for, in the Federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. CDAC was recognized two years in a row by the Association of California State Employees with Disabilities and the State Disability Advisory Committee with the “DAC of the Year” award in 2020 and 2021.
DEI Advisory Council
In 2020, we formed the DEI Advisory Council. The DEI Advisory Council, working under the direction of the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, is the primary deliberative body for DEI initiatives within the organization. The DEI Advisory Council includes stakeholders from across the enterprise. The role of the Council includes, but is not limited to, supporting our strategic goals and tactical initiatives as identified in the CalPERS’ Strategic Plan and Business Plan.
Videos
